Nova's Perfect Chromosome

Or last few months have been busy to say the least. We have learned through several tests and sleepless nights that our baby boy, Nova has been prenatally diagnosed with Down Syndrome (Trisomy 21). Nova will require early intervention with a team of therapists and special educators starting at birth. And will have a long journey ahead of us for his early years of life. As most, we were in the dark about what this meant for our son and family. We have been very grateful to receive an outpour of support from multiple organizations, family, and friends. It wasn't until a recent office visit that we learned Nova has Duodenal Artresia, which is an intestinal obstruction. It is a condition in which the first part of the small bowel has not developed properly. It is not open and cannot allow the passage of stomach contents. Nova will require surgery at birth to correct the blockage. It also causes increased levels of amniotic fluid during pregnancy. I have just been diagnosed with severe polyhydamnios (excess amniotic fluid) that has put me at risk of delivering prematurely. This now requires weekly visits to my High Risk Doctor to monitor fluid, and may require treatment to drain excess amniotic fluid. Due to these recent diagnosis I have had to stop working permanently. After meeting with the Neonatologist on Tuesday, we have learned that Nova will spend at least a month in the NICU. His stay can be prolonged depending on recovery. Travel to the hospital will be 60 miles daily one way to be with our son, as well as, continue to care for our two older children. Those who know us know that we don't like asking for help. The birth of a child is supposed to be one of the most exciting and joyful moments of your life. The last thing we need as a family is added financial burden. No donation is too small! We appreciate each and every one of you more than we can express.